USA Landslide Hazard Map - click on the lower right

Landslide Hazard Mapping

   Landslides are rapid down-slope movements of earthen materials, including rocks, mud, dirt, water, and debris. Landslide is a catch-all term for the various types of mass wasting or mass movements, including, but not limited to: rockfall, slumps, slides, creep, mudflows, mudslides, debris flows, etc. For the purposes of this website we treat avalanches as a separate hazard. Landslides can be caused by over steepening or over loading of slopes, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, flooding, and other severe weather events; or by vegetation loss as a result of logging, development, or wildfires. 

Mapping of areas at risk from landslides is important to help reduce losses and prevent damage. Landslide incidence and susceptibility maps identify areas more subject to hazard. Some local areas may have landslide zoning areas which may require detailed studies to be performed prior to construction or may restrict construction in specific areas. 

   In the United States the United States Geological Survey, or USGS, is the primary federal agency responsible for studying mapping and modeling landslide hazard. FEMA and other federal, state, or local agencies may be involved as well. Some resources are listed below.

   To learn more about landslide hazards in your area, contact the appropriate local, state or federal agency. If you plan to build, develop, or inhabit areas subject to landslide hazards, consult a qualified professional regarding the hazard, your risk, and options for mitigation. The information on this site is only intended as an educational tool to help you get started. By using it you are subject to our terms of use.

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Landslide debris, China, 2008. Photo D. Wald.Courtesy USGS.